Skin Cancer Check

Skin cancer occurs when the skin is overexposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. In Australia, we love the outdoors, not the mention the beaches in summer. We can all enjoy it to the fullest if we stay sun smart and know our own skin!

In Australia, every year: – 80% of all newly diagnosed -cancers are skin cancers – 95 and 99% of skin cancers are caused by overexposure to the sun – Doctors have over 1 million patient consultations per year for skin cancer – Australia has one of the highest incidence of skin cancer IN THE WORLD – two to three times the rates in Canada, the US and the UK.

There are three main types of skin cancer: Melanoma – the most dangerous form of skin cancer Basal cell carcinoma Squamous cell carcinoma

When it comes to skin cancer diagnosis, the sooner the better! Early detection can avoid potentially disfiguring surgery or at worst, spread and possible death. It is always a good idea to talk to one of our doctors about your risk factors for skin cancer, before it happens. Also, get to know your own skin, know what’s normal and what’s not, you may be the first port of call when it comes to detection!

Look for: New spots, freckles or any moles changing in colour, thickness or shape Lumps or bumps that look red, pale or pearly in colour Any crusty-looking sores which fail to heal